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P.O. Box 734 Neptune, NJ 07753
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Charles Bryant 732-922-8909 / setlit4u@msn.com
2023-2025 OFFICERS
PRESIDENT
Ken Miller, 821 Collision, LLC (973) 949-3733 / kmiller@821collision.com
COLLISION CHAIRMAN/
PAST PRESIDENT ATTENDING
Jerry McNee, Ultimate Collision Repair, Inc. 732-494-1900 / ultimatecollision@att.net
MECHANICAL CHAIRMAN
Keith Krehel, Krehel Automotive Repair, Inc. 973-546-2828 / krehelauto@aol.com
TREASURER
Tom Elder, Compact Kars, Inc. 609-259-6373 / compactkars@aol.com
SECRETARY
Thomas Greco, Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. 973-667-6922 / thomas@grecopublishing.com
BOARD
Nick Barbera, Union Collision 908-964-1212 / nick@unioncollision.com
Dennis Cataldo, Jr., D&M Auto Body 732-251-4313 / jr@dnmautobody.com
Brad Crawford, Livingston Collision, Inc. 973-992-5274 / livingston.collision@gmail.com
Todd Fontana, Proline Body & Chassis 201-398-1512 / todd@prolinebody.com
Gary Gardella, Jr., County Line Auto Body 732-363-5904 / countylineautobody@gmail.com
Dean Massimini, Autotech Collision Service, Inc. 856-232-1822 / autotechnj@comcast.net
Jeff McDowell, Leslie’s Auto Body 732-738-1948 / chacki@aol.com
Danielle Molina, 821 Collision (973) 949-3733 / dmolina@821collision.com
Ted Rainer, Ocean Bay Auto Body 732-899-7900 / ted@oceanbayautobody.com
Anthony Trama 973-818-9739 / anthonytrama@aol.com
BOARD ALLIED
Joe Amato, The Amato Agency 732-530-6740 / joesr@amatoagency.com
Mike Kaufmann, Mike Kaufmann Dealer Group 973-332-7014 / mkaufmann@adps.com
PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER
Thomas Greco / thomas@grecopublishing.com
VICE PRESIDENT/SALES DIRECTOR
Alicia Figurelli / alicia@grecopublishing.com
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Alana Quartuccio / alana@grecopublishing.com
SENIOR CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Chasidy Rae Sisk / chasidy@grecopublishing.com
OFFICE MANAGER
Donna Greco / donna@grecopublishing.com
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR
Joe Greco / joe@grecopublishing.com
CONTRIBUTING
Published by: Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. 244 Chestnut Street, Suite 202, Nutley, NJ 07110 Corporate: (973) 667-6922 / FAX: (973) 235-1963 www.grecopublishing.com @grecopublishing IN MEMORIAM 8 Keith Steven Krehel
NEWS
12 Grabbing Gold: NJ Student Wins Refinishing Competition at SkillsUSA Nationals by Chasidy Rae Sisk
14 AASP/NJ Awards Russ Robson Scholarships to Two Young Industry Professionals by Chasidy Rae Sisk
NATIONAL NEWS
20 AASP National Board Conducts Final Meeting at SEMA by Alana Quartuccio COVER STORY
24 Alone or Together: Where the Industry Stands in New Jersey Automotive’s 2024 Survey Results by Jacquelyn Bauman
LEGAL PERSPECTIVE
36 Full Throttle: Succeeding with Family-Owned Business by Bill Barrett, Mandelbaum Barrett PC
RECYCLERS ASSOCIATION OF NEW JERSEY 40 Wharton Insurance Briefs by Mario DeFilippis
Wes Kearney
Nick Kostakis
Jim Kowalak
Keith Krehel
Joe Lubrano
Michael Lovullo
Jeff McDowell
Jerry McNee
Ron Mucklow
George Petrask
Russ Robson
Jerry Russomano
George Threlfall
Anthony Trama
Cynthia Tursi
Lee Vetland
Paul Vigilant
Rich
Brian Vesley
Glenn Villacari
Stan
MYGA
Before you read this column, please look down to the lower part of this page and consider making a donation in memory of Keith Steven Krehel. That is the best Christmas gift I can think of.
Several months ago, I wrote about how people should bring their grocery receipt when they go to vote and then vote based on that. It sure looks like they did. I won’t get into a long rap about Trump or Harris. I’ll just say I voted for Trump all three times he ran. Why? In 2016, my business was treading water. I needed a change, and I said so right in these pages. Turns out, by the end of 2019, my business was in the best shape it had ever been. Since then, business has tanked, and we have had to diversify (and work harder than ever) just to survive. So, once again, it was time for a change. Hopefully, history repeats itself.
But I can’t end without mentioning how Donald Trump drives people crazy. It’s not normal. To let someone who has nothing to do with your actual life rule your emotions is absolutely insane. Honestly, I cannot believe how several family members and friends have let this election impact their lives and decision making. I’ll give you one example.
I have a friend who has gone nuts. We met back in middle school 50 years ago. We hung out all the time, playing basketball and swimming in my backyard. We were teammates in basketball and the middle linebacker combo in football. We have talked endlessly over the decades about the double blitz fumble recovery that he returned for a touchdown. Great kid. Good man. Spent the last 40 years in the military and as a teacher all around the country. Yet, we always found a way to stay in touch. Last year, we got together with our old crew to visit with a dying friend. It was like we were all 15 again.
by THOMAS GRECO, PUBLISHER
I have never been one to post political views on social media, but apparently my buddy likes to. I had never really paid attention until about a month before the election, so you know I just had to bust his chops while we discussed getting healthy.
“I keep trying to get Ozempic, but the frigging insurance won’t cover it. They say I have to be diabetic. They want me to get sicker before they give me the fix. See, that’s why we need to make America...GOTCHA! LOL.” He didn’t LOL.
“I’m issue-specific regardless of the party, but my hatred for Trump is real, never-ending and totally justified.”
“No politics, my friend, we can agree to disagree.”
“You opened the door. Trump is a racist. His history of racist acts and behavior is something I can’t ignore. There is NOTHING about him or his agenda that is intended to benefit me or my family.”
“Not my job to defend him or any politician. All I can do is look and see when my business is doing best. That’s what affects my vote.”
He gave me a thumbs up and disappeared. I was a little taken aback. He never was the type to be that extreme.
I hadn’t spoken with him, but then on the day after the election, he posted a meme that said, “If you voted for Trump, I mean this in the most disrespectful way possible: I do not want anything to do with you.” And he added, “If you think I’m taking this personally, you’re right.”
Seriously? My friend (or should I say former friend) of 50 years is 64 years old! If an election is worth giving up on friends and families, maybe it’s time to grow up and Make Yourself Good Again.
Regardless…Merry Christmas to my old friend and to all of you!
Keith Steven Krehel
The AASP/NJ community and New Jersey Automotive extend their heartfelt sympathy to Mechanical Chairman Keith Krehel and his family on the loss of their son, Keith Steven Krehel, who passed away on November 16 at the age of 21.
Keith Steven worked part-time with his father at Krehel Automotive Repair (Clifton). He was studying business administration at
Passaic County Community College. He will be remembered as kind, compassionate, generous, funny, smart, polite and as the most wonderful son, brother, nephew, uncle and friend.
Donations in his memory can be sent to the Epilepsy Foundation at this link: bit.ly/donateepilepsyfoundation
How Can There Be Such a Big Difference?
How can two shops, looking at the same vehicle with identical damage, produce repair estimates that differ by thousands – sometimes tens of thousands – of dollars?
The answer is one that we, as professionals in the collision repair industry, must confront. These disparities expose not just differences in training or tools, but also troubling behaviors that undermine the integrity of our work, the safety of the public and the reputation of our industry. I was recently exposed to this firsthand in an estimate training class we participated in for a particular OEM certification. The assignment was to write an estimate on a specific vehicle requiring a quarter panel replacement. The estimates varied from under $5,000 to well over $15,000, and all used a standard labor rate! How can it be?
Let’s be honest: the issue isn’t just about costs; it’s about priorities. Are we putting proper, OEMcompliant repairs first? How many are truly aware of what that even means? Or are we, whether through negligence, lack of training or insurer appeasement, allowing compromises that endanger consumers and tarnish the industry? It’s time to have this uncomfortable conversation and commit to elevating collision repair to the standard our customers – and their vehicles – deserve.
The Knowledge Gap
One of the most significant contributors to inconsistent estimates is the varying levels of knowledge and training among repair planners. Writing a proper damage analysis requires more than surface-level understanding; it demands expertise in vehicle construction, estimating systems, repair methodologies, manufacturer procedures and a great deal of time in researching the required procedures, parts, etc.
Unfortunately, too many shops treat estimating systems as infallible guides. These tools are helpful but are far from comprehensive. They don’t account for trim-level differences or automatically populate all required repair steps. Failure to research and document OEM repair procedures often results in incomplete repair plans – lower costs, yes, but at the expense of quality and safety.
If we don’t make training a priority, we are willfully choosing ignorance. That’s unacceptable. Every shop must invest in the education and certification of their staff. If we don’t, we can’t blame anyone but ourselves when inconsistent or substandard repairs damage our industry’s reputation, or worse, place someone in danger.
The Insurer’s Influence
Insurer interference is a persistent problem. Many shops
by KEN MILLER
are graded by severity and feel the pressure to “play ball” by writing estimates that align with insurer costcutting goals rather than OEM repair standards. We all know the game: insurers steer customers to preferred shops, dangle the promise of steady work and demand low estimates. But at what cost?
This is where we need to take a stand. Yes, standing up to insurers can be difficult, especially when they are the reason you have work in the shop. But bending to their will not only jeopardizes the integrity of our work – it also sets a dangerous precedent. The shops writing higher estimates for proper, thorough repairs are often the ones being vilified, while those cutting corners to satisfy insurers get rewarded.
A Call to Action: Stop the Complicity
The truth is, the collision repair industry has been complicit in its own struggles. Every time a shop prioritizes expediency or insurer satisfaction over proper repairs, it sends a message that we don’t take our craft – or our customers’ safety –seriously.
We can and must do better. That means holding ourselves and each other accountable. It means pushing for standardized training, transparency in estimating systems and independent oversight of insurer practices. Most importantly, it means understanding what a proper repair consists of and refusing to compromise on those repairs – no matter the pressure.
The public deserves safe, OEMcompliant repairs. The industry deserves respect. Neither will happen unless we collectively rise to meet the challenge. It’s time to stop blaming the system and start fixing it. The future of collision repair depends on us.
Grabbing Gold: NJ Student Wins Refinishing Competition at SkillsUSA Nationals
Rowan Cummings has refinishing SKILLS!
Cummings, then a junior at Morris County School of Technology (MCST) in Denville, showcased his talents in automotive refinish technology when he took first place in the collision repair competition during the New Jersey SkillsUSA State Leadership and Skills Conference, held last spring.
“I sent Rowan and a second-year student to the state level competition where Rowan took gold and my secondyear student took the bronze,” shares MCST Instructor of Collision Repair and Refinishing Lou Rosso. “I am extremely proud of Rowan’s performance at the state level. I was not overly surprised at all – more like happily shocked.”
MCST offers a two-year refinishing program, open to juniors and seniors. Rosso knew that Cummings possessed something special as soon as he enrolled in the program. “When Rowan came to my class, he immediately showed an interest in the entire industry; however, he really stood out due to his interest and innate abilities to handle a spray gun. I worked closely with him on several techniques, and as I expected, he picked them up very quickly. Rowan is an energetic young man and good student. His thirst for knowledge of the industry as well as honing his skills is unprecedented in my opinion. Rowan has taken on a leadership role in the afternoon class which he attends. He is the painter in the shop.”
Cummings’ local victory earned him the right to head to Atlanta in June to compete against the winners from other states as the Garden State’s gold medal
champion, but he had reservations about participating in the national competition.
“Let’s just say he didn’t want to go at first,” Rosso recalls. “Rowan is a very intelligent young man, and he was worried about certain parts of the national competition, namely the color tinting and UV portions.”
Fortunately, his teacher encouraged him to give it a shot.
“After a few more conversations and some explanations of how tinting goes and what UV products are and how they work, he gained confidence and decided to go to Atlanta and compete; however, he did not go to nationals expecting anything – he went to represent the state and school and try his best.
It turns out that Cummings’ best was more than good enough! He outscored the other refinish competitors, placing first in the national SkillsUSA competition and heading home with a coveted gold medal.
“His best actually set the bar at nationals,” Rosso boasts. “I knew he would do well but never expected him to come home a national champion. Rowan is on course to do very well in the industry and have an extraordinary career. I am extremely proud to have him as a student.”
Congratulations on your victory at SkillsUSA Nationals, Rowan Cummings! New Jersey Automotive wishes you the best of luck as you pursue your collision career!
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AASP/NJ Awards Russ Robson Scholarships to Two Young Industry Professionals
Each year, AASP/NJ helps make a young person’s educational pursuits a little more reachable by providing assistance in the form of the Russ Robson Scholarship. During its 2024 Annual Meeting, held October 23 at the Gran Centurions (Clark), the association expanded its efforts to support the next generation of aspiring automotive professionals by awarding scholarships to two promising automotive workers employed by member shops in good standing!
Brayan Colomer (K&L Auto Body; Somerville) and Erick Garcia (Krehel Automotive Repair; Clifton) were the lucky recipients of the 2024 Russ Robson Scholarships, and both young men received plaques to commemorate the honor in addition to scholarship funds to use toward their ongoing education and training in the collision repair industry.
The scholarship was created in memory of the former AASP/NJ president who was well known in the industry for his dedication and training of others and for being an instrumental part of transitioning the Garden State Automotive Federation into AASP/NJ. The award is intended to encourage young people to stay in the industry and recognize them for being viable candidates on their way to becoming A-technicians.
Colomer has always been interested in the automotive industry. “Cars have been a lifelong passion of mine, evolving from a childhood hobby into a serious commitment to the collision repair industry. From messing with toy cars to restoring vehicles, I’ve always been drawn to the challenge and satisfaction of bringing cars back to life after damage. Collision repair combines my love for mechanics with precision and artistry, making it the perfect field for me.”
Receiving the Russ Robson Scholarship will provide him with “access to advanced training and industry networking, both of which are crucial for building a successful career in auto body repair.”
Furthering his skill set will aid him in achieving his industry goals. “My ultimate goal is to open my own automotive shop, known for quality and craftsmanship. I aim to build a reputation for excellence and contribute to the field by mentoring future technicians. This scholarship would be a big step toward making those goals come true.”
Alexis Rodriguez, owner of K&L Auto Body, speaks
highly of Colomer’s work ethic and his dedication to honing his skills. “Brayan is demonstrating great progress in mastering key auto body repair skills. He consistently shows strong attention to detail, ensuring that every repair meets quality standards. Here at K&L, Brayan is known for being helpful and positive; he is always open to learning new things. His interest in cars definitely motivates him to keep evolving.”
Rodriguez believes that the scholarship will be vital in helping his young employee continue growing in this everchanging industry. “Auto body is changing drastically year after year. Shops need to invest in advanced training and technology to handle these materials, especially since they often require specific repair techniques. Overall, the future of the auto body industry has to stay nimble, invest in new technologies and prioritize special training to keep pace with a rapidly evolving future. With the additional training he’ll receive with these scholarship funds, I am excited to see the role Brayan will evolve into next.”
Garcia also reports being interested in the automotive world for as long as he can remember. “I have always been interested in cars, and my interest grew in high school.”
He has lofty aspirations for his future. “My goal is to become a master mechanic and someday own my own shop,” he shares, expressing gratitude to AASP/NJ for the scholarship which will “benefit me by offsetting my past and current educational expenses.”
Keith Krehel, owner of Krehel Automotive, nominated his employee for the 2024 Russ Robson Scholarship because he is confident that the young man’s talent and enthusiasm for the automotive industry will lead to a vibrant, successful career as he continues to develop his skills. “Erick has the spark of motivation. He works on any task assigned to him at a good pace, and he knows when to stop and ask questions. As he continues to learn and grow his capabilities, I see him moving up in the ranks over time to become an excellent mechanic.”
The future is limitless and bright for these two young industry professionals. New Jersey Automotive offers congratulations and best wishes as they pursue their passion in the automotive industry.
Brayan Colomer (K&L Auto Body; Somerville) accepting his award from AASP/NJ Board members Tom Elder, Jeff McDowell and Ken Miller (president)
Erick Garcia (Krehel Automotive Repair; Clifton) and AASP/NJ Board members during the Annual Meeting
Alloy Wheel Repair Specialists –a “One-Stop Shop”
No matter how you spin it, there really is no competition when it comes to wheel repair and replacement outside of Alloy Wheel Repair Specialists. Thousands of body shops all around the country call on them for everything related to wheel repair and replacement as they are the world’s largest wheel repair, manufacturing and replacement provider.
The company has grown substantially since its early roots were first planted in 2001, growing from one shop to more than 100 today. According to CEO Rob Wheeley, who assures he did not change his
name, quipping “It must have been in the stars,” the company began as a licensee company which moved to franchising. Wheeley was a franchise owner in Baltimore at the time when he was approached by a private equity company looking to create a corporate market alongside the franchise market. “Baltimore was the first acquisition in November 2015, and we started rolling out the corporate network we have now.”
Their large network allows them to serve clients in many different ways. The operation consists of over 400 mobile repair facilities that can go directly to their customers. They also have 50 manufacturing plants.
“Our mobile remanufacturing facilities are full wheel repair mobile units that go on site to the customer to perform wheel repairs, wheel straightening, recoloring or whatever a body shop, dealership or tire store needs. These units are the equivalent of a mini body shop. They are OSHA and EPA compliant. They have a wheel straightener on board, a separate room to prep the wheel and an enclosed downdraft paint booth –a mini version of what you’d see in the
body shop. This enables us to provide the workmanship that one would expect from a company like ours.
“We work for thousands, if not tens of thousands, of body shops around the country,” adds Wheeley. “We adhere to safety standards. If a mobile unit on the road encounters a wheel with heavy damage, we’ll take it back to our manufacturing unit where we usually repair and turn it around in about 24 hours. If a wheel cannot be repaired, we provide them with a replacement with OEM inventory at a fraction of the cost.”
Aside from the quality of service they provide, what really sets Alloy Wheels apart is that they have the largest footprint across the United States. Others may provide one or two of these services, but they are the only company to provide all three – repair, re-manufacturing and replacement.
The company has truly achieved substantial success and growth over these past 25 years as the need for repair grew and grew. “Prior to twenty-five years ago, they weren’t repairing wheels or windshields and fixing dents in bumpers. They began to repair these components in the late 90s and early 2000s, and that’s how this franchise was born.”
Growth continues in many forms. They are also working to publish their repairs to estimating platforms –another easy button for shops. Also, working closely with local auto body associations is a great way to partner with their customers and get the word out.
“We are a one-stop shop, offering world class wheel repair and firstclass customer service,” Wheeley boasts.
Alloy Wheel Repair Specialists CEO, Rob Wheeley
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AASP National Board Conducts Final Meeting at SEMA
The AASP National Board of Directors conducted its final meeting during SEMA week in Las Vegas last month, bringing 25 years of history to a close. This past September, the national Board announced it would dissolve at year-end, following a strategic review that determined difficulties maintaining a significant national presence due to declining affiliate numbers.
Following the conclusion of Board
business, recognition was given to Board members for their dedication and services at the national level. AASP/ NJ’s Tom Elder was presented with a plaque in recognition of his service on the Executive Board.
The dissolution of the national Board has no bearing on the affiliate associations. AASP/NJ will remain active in all its efforts to strive to advocate for consumers, educate repairers and
LEGAL SOLUTIONS
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L-R: Dave Bausinger, Barry Burkholder, Tom Elder, Bill Adams, Ken Miller, Lucas Underwood, Lucky Papageorg, Dan Sjolseth, Will Latuff, Judell Anderson and Bob Gottfred
AASP/NJ’s Tom Elder and AASP National President Dan Sjolseth
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Introducing the new InvertaSpot NexGen Spot Welder
The InvertaSpot NexGen, featuring advanced press-and-go technology, is the ideal choice for customers seeking a cutting-edge automated spot-welding solution. Developed to meet car manufacturer specifications, it offers both automatic and manual operation modes.
Now equipped with a lighter gun for improved handling, the InvertaSpot NG also features trigger controls for seamless operation and an easy-to-navigate touchscreen display that enhances user experience. The new lighter c-arms upgraded technology ensure precise regulation of pressure, amperage, and timing, delivering optimal performance for a variety of sheet metal configurations.
Photo from Stegmann GmbH
Alone or Together: Where the Industry Stands New
Jersey Automotive’s 2024 Survey Results
The world has changed for everyone significantly over the past five years alone, but how has it changed for automotive repairers in New Jersey? Are we all still feeling the crushing weight of insurer interference? Has anyone’s labor rate gone up? Is anyone else struggling to hire new employees? What is the shop down the street doing to make their business more successful?
Being a shop owner in these uncertain times can be scary and lonely, as these questions and more weigh heavily on our minds. To try and alleviate some of these concerns, New Jersey Automotive has once again set out to get a finger on the pulse of the industry and bring you the answers you need to feel less alone. We hope that this information provides you with relevant insight to make better decisions for your business and shine some light on what’s going on behind all of our bay doors.
by JACQUELYN BAUMAN
2024 NJA Industry Survey
What describes your primary business?
Collision Repair: 86%
Collision & Mechanical Repair: 12%
Mechanical Repair: 2%
Collision shops: Are you a DRP?
Yes, 1-5 programs: 54%
Yes, 6-10 programs: 15%
Yes, more than 10 programs: 2%
No: 29%
Over the last few years, we have seen the percentage of survey respondents who are not a part of any DRP programs slowly increase as Garden State repairers see less and less value in partnering with an industry that willingly puts them on the chopping block.
If you are not a DRP shop, is steering more or less of a problem than in the past?
Steering is MORE of a problem than in the past: 67%
Steering has remained about the same: 24%
Steering is LESS of a problem than in the past: 9%
In 2023, only half of NJA repairers who took our survey thought that steering
was MORE of a problem than they had experienced in the past, with 40 percent of readers believing that the impact of steering had generally stayed about the same to their previous experience. This year, over two thirds of collision repairers in New Jersey are feeling the impact of steering more than ever before.
How many employees do you have, including yourself?
1-5: 28%
6-10: 33%
11-20: 23%
More than 20: 16%
What is the age of your OLDEST employee?
30-40: 2%
41-50: 7%
Over 50: 91%
What is the age of your YOUNGEST employee?
18-25: 70%
26-35: 18%
Over 35: 12%
Getting new blood into the industry has been a challenge for shop owners for well over the past two decades. Society’s shift
away from the importance of learning a trade has made hiring new technicians a struggle for shop owners over the past few years. It seems, however, that there may be a light on the horizon. In 2023, our survey revealed that the youngest employee for over one fifth of our readers was older than 35 – a scary fact considering, at that time, 98 percent of readers also said their oldest employee was over the age of 50. This year, the majority of our readers now have employees under the age of 35, with 70 percent reporting their youngest employee is between 18-25. We hope to see these trends continue, as the future of this industry depends on it!
Do you have any involvement with local vocational/trade schools?
Yes: 35% No: 49% No, but I’d like to: 16%
This upward trend of young people getting involved in the automotive repair industry can be directly tied to our survey takers’ response to this question, as over one-third indicated they have some involvement with their local vocational or trade schools.
NJA readers indicated that they partner with their local schools in a variety of ways, from sitting on an advisory board for the school to providing expert advice to students to certifying equipment and providing internships and part-time work to students.
“We employ part time students in the auto body program at Bergen Tech Paramus,” explained one
survey respondent from a North Jersey shop. “It feels good to know we’re helping provide the training for the talent that will be the future of our industry.”
How many employees have you hired in the past year?
None: 23%
1: 33%
2-4: 35%
5 or more: 9%
What has been your biggest challenge in attracting and retaining employees?
Even though we’re seeing new talent starting their careers in shops around the Garden State, finding and retaining employees is still a significant challenge for our readers. Just as in 2023, 58 percent of our survey respondents noted that finding qualified talent for their shops is nearly impossible.
“The skills just aren’t there,” explained one Burlington shop owner. “We have to take the time and invest in them by training them, but we don’t have the capacity to do so.”
For a lot of shop owners, finding a qualified employee is hard when they aren’t even getting an applicant pool from which to choose.
“The biggest challenge is that even when we were looking, nobody applies,” shared a shop owner from Avon. “The younger generation does not want to work at a body shop. With rates as low as they are, as an owner, I just can’t run my shop and pay people what they are truly worth.”
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2024 NJA Industry Survey
continued from pg. 25
“Compensation from third-party bill payers does not allow shops to attract talent compared to other industries,” another repairer from Livingston agreed.
When a qualified and willing employee does finally make it through the shop door, many owners are finding that they can’t keep up with the many demands of the modern workforce.
“We can’t afford to offer them the kind of health coverage and 401(k) that they’re looking for,” lamented a Newark-based repairer. “That, on top of all of the sick time, personal time, vacation time…you name it.”
What has been the most effective method for attracting new employees?
For NJA survey takers who have been successful in hiring new employees in 2024, 19 percent have found that the most effective method for recruitment has been simply word of mouth.
“We rely on referrals from current employees,” shared a South Orange shop owner. “We take care
of our current employees so they’re happy and are willing to tell others to come work for us.”
One shop owner in Augusta revealed that they have found the success of hiring new employees lies in what you’re able to offer them.
“For us, we offer a competitive pay scale,” he revealed. “That and offering benefits certainly helps.”
Others in the industry haven’t been quite so lucky, with one Ocean Townshipbased reader sharing that they “haven’t succeeded yet.”
What do you do in your business to promote a positive work culture?
Although some shops have been successful in bringing in new employees, the ever-present struggle to find new talent weighs heavy on the minds of many Garden State repairers, meaning employee retention is more important than ever. So, how are shop owners cultivating an environment that makes their staff want to stick around? For many of our readers, building a good relationship is the
foundation to promoting a positive work culture.
“We focus on a teamwork environment,” an East Orange survey respondent reported. “We do monthly catered lunches where we all break bread together, and I offer social outings twice a year where we all go out for a nice dinner.”
“We post all the customer feedback to the office, so the shop employees can see it,” one Roselle shop owner added. “We celebrate employee birthdays and invite staff and their families to events like Cars and Coffee, car shows and trunk-or-treat.”
In addition to crafting a warm, family-oriented environment, some New Jersey repairers are working to maintain a lower-stress setting to promote a positive work culture.
“I try to allow everyone to operate autonomously with very little micro-management or interference,” shared a Montclair repairer. “Our guys know if there is anything or any tool they want to better their job performance or the shop, just ask and we can order it.”
“We try to keep the pressure and stress low,” echoed a Mt. Holly-based reader. “We offer flex time, training and open lines of communication.”
What employee benefits do you offer your staff?
Health insurance: 70%
401(k): 47%
PTO: 12%
No benefits: 28%
With the age of employees on the rise, it is no shock that a majority of shops prioritize health insurance and retirement benefits to their staff as an incentive to get them to stick around. Some shop owners are even going above and beyond to help lighten the load and provide perks for their staff, with some survey respondents indicating that they provide insurance deductible reimbursement, phones, bonuses, paid lunches, paid training, flexible hours and even profit sharing!
While many survey respondents are doing everything in their power to retain their employees through these benefits, there are still 28 percent who do not provide any benefits to staff – not because they don’t want to, but because they simply can’t afford it.
“The expense is something we just can’t absorb,” revealed a shop owner from North Jersey. “We can’t afford to provide benefits with the current prevailing rate.”
What do you think is the most pressing issue affecting shops today?
Unless today is your first day in the automotive repair industry, it should be no surprise to anyone reading this article that the overwhelming majority of readers found the most pressing issue affecting shops is insurer control and insufficient labor rates.
“Insurer involvement makes working in this industry almost impossible,” lamented a Paterson shop owner. “Between steering, denial for required repairs and downward pressure on reimbursements, it’s a miracle any of us are able to get anything done at all.”
“Insurance companies act like it’s the wild west,” another survey respondent from South Jersey sympathized. “They operate outside of the rules.”
In addition to the pressure of operating underneath insurer control and manipulation, 39 percent of our readers shared that their most pressing issue is the lack of qualified technicians entering the workforce.
“We won’t have a future in this industry if we don’t start getting qualified technicians in soon,” one Central Jersey shop owner confessed. “Unless something changes, I just don’t see how any of us will survive.”
How would you define the “future” of collision repair?
While there isn’t a crystal ball in the world that could reveal the future of the automotive repair industry, one thing is for certain – unless things change, with the current state of things, repairers in
the Garden State aren’t too optimistic.
“Mom-and-pop shops won’t be a thing anymore,” predicted one repairer from Woodland Park. “Large MSOs will take control, and any owner that tries to compete will lose their shirts.”
“Consolidation will be the norm,” echoed a North Jersey shop owner. “Small, old school, non-certified shops will largely disappear within a few years.”
Consolidation isn’t the only fear for the future of the industry – NJA readers also see the rise of technology as a growing challenge for shop owners in the years to come.
“The vehicles on the road are already growing more complicated,” explained a Green Brook repairer. “It’s going to get harder and harder to repair these new vehicles with all their AI. I believe that there will always be a need for collision repair, but it’s becoming more difficult due to all of the lane departure and self-stopping features.”
Although the bulk of our survey respondents shared their concerns about the future of automotive repair, a few of our readers had a more positive outlook on the road ahead.
“There will obviously be challenges,” one West Orange shop owner shared. “But despite the challenges, I see a lot of opportunities out there. It will be tough, but I’m optimistic.”
How is your shop preparing for this future?
Whether their view of the future is bright or bleak,
New Jersey shop owners are preparing for tomorrow however they can.
Training and obtaining OEM certifications were noted as priorities by over half of our survey respondents as their best defense against whatever is to come.
“We’re focusing on maintaining and growing our OEM certifications,” shared a North Jersey shop owner. “If we’re known for our high-quality repairs, we have more of a leg up in providing customer education, which helps us push back against insurers and get paid what we’re worth.”
“We’re training our staff on technical skills, but also their soft skills,” another shop owner from Paterson concurred. “But we aren’t just training our staff. We spend time educating insurance staff whenever possible, too.”
In addition to training, New Jersey shop owners are also making an effort to address their workforce issues by investing in employee retention as much as possible.
“Trying to retain our employees and our management is a challenging task,” explained a Piscataway-based repairer. “It’s tough, but it’s necessary for the future of our business.”
How would you rate your current state of business?
Despite being affected heavily by insurance control, a substandard labor rate, a dwindling workforce and more, NJA survey respondents in 2024 rated their current state of business higher than we’ve seen since 2021. In the last three years of this survey, Garden State shop owners hadn’t rated their current state of business over 6.7 on average. In 2024, that number has shockingly gone up to 7.3 – with 100 percent of readers rating their current state of business at a 5 or higher!
How does your shop handle ADAS calibrations?
Repair In-House: 39%
Sublet to dealership: 13%
Sublet to ADAS calibration center: 48%
If you calibrate ADAS in-house, who performs the calibrations?
Shop owner: 4%
Repair planner: 0%
Dedicated calibration tech(s): 44%
continued on pg. 30
2024 NJA Industry Survey
continued from pg. 29
Whoever is handling that repair job: 4%
Sublet vendor: 48%
What are you doing to combat rising P&M costs?
With inflation running rampant over the past few years, the cost of everything around us has gotten out of control. In response, New Jersey shop owners are dealing with rising P&M costs however they can, with 48 percent of survey respondents noting that they use some paint and refinish calculator and 22 percent indicating that they’re passing the cost along to the consumer.
“We’ve raised our rates to reflect the increases,” shared a Belleville repairer. “There was just no way around it. We were eating the additional cost, but the lack of proper reimbursement was killing us.”
For those shops that haven’t raised their rates, many of them are using the paint and refinish calculators and other tactics to push back on insurers for proper reimbursement – to varying degrees of success.
“We’re pushing back hard on paint supplier increases,” a Maplewood shop owner said. “They actually caved on the last one. And we’re sending insurers information to help justify any rate increases.”
“We’re buying in bulk quantity,” a Central Jersey repairer explained. “We keep hammering insurers to face reality.”
Some repairers are using the same tactics but aren’t getting quite as
far with insurers as their neighboring shops.
“We’re using the Mitchell Refinish calculator, but we’re getting a lot of pushback,” complained a Linden shop owner. “Not all insurers will pay.”
In your experience, which insurer is most difficult to deal with, and why?
Although almost every insurer you can imagine popped up in at least one survey respondent’s answer to this question (with quite a few of you stating that ‘all of the insurance companies’ are the hardest to deal with), for the past eight years of this survey, there have been three notorious culprits who have risen to the top of the list – Allstate, State Farm and Progressive.
What makes these insurers so hard to deal with? According to our readers, the reasons range from ignorant adjusters to lack of communication to inflexibility in paying for what needs to be done to properly repair a vehicle.
“Without a doubt, Allstate is the worst insurer out there,” a Newark shop owner shared. “There is no information on any of their estimates as to who is the adjuster or what is their phone number or how to contact them. They have outsourced many of their procedures out of the country, which makes dealing with them even more difficult. It’s hard having someone who has never repaired a car tell you how to fix it.”
“Neither State Farm nor Progressive have a Right to Appraisal in their policies,” explained a Camden repairer. “It makes it impossible to get anything done right. Because they have such inexperienced writers, it’s a constant battle on what is repairable and what needs to be replaced.”
One Verona shop owner has a theory that the more marketing to the public an insurance company does, the harder it will be to work with them.
“Any of the insurers you see on the TV are going to be garbage,” he revealed. “They put the money into marketing instead of doing things right. The staff and the adjusters hide behind their ‘higher authority’ and leave no room for discussion. It’s a ‘take it or leave it’ negotiation.”
In your opinion, how have insurer-shop relations worsened over the past year?
Dealing with insurance companies’ bad behavior has been a persistent issue for the automotive repair industry for longer than any of us can remember, but
as times have changed, so have the challenges around this dynamic. With the introduction of technology and the shift to doing business for the lowest cost available, insurer-shop relationships have become even harder to navigate.
“Insurers just have a complete and total disregard for proper repairs,” remarked one North Jersey survey respondent. “There’s no negotiation at all. The insurer’s goal is only to steer to direct repair shops so they can control how the job is done.”
For many of our readers, insurance companies’ lack of care for safe and proper repairs was the biggest way insurer-shop relations have worsened over the past year.
“The insurance companies feel they can allow or disallow a repair process at the drop of a dime,” a Bloomfield shop owner continued. “They don’t care how it affects their customers. They don’t care about their customers or safe and proper repairs.”
While insurance companies refusing to allow what is necessary to properly repair a vehicle has been a persistent issue in the industry for decades, many of our readers believe recent advances in technology have only worsened insurance companies’ conduct.
“I think the age of instant access, remote computing and smart phones has reduced the need for any relationship between the insurer and the shop,” one Montclair shop owner informed. “In the carrier’s mind, they think the process is now ‘go take pictures, write an estimate,
and then delay, deny and defend.’”
A Newton repairer shared these sentiments.
“None of the insurance companies deem it necessary to send out adjusters anymore,” he revealed. “They just have the customers take pictures, send them in and hope they take the check and cash it. There are a lot of unsafe vehicles on the road due to this practice. Then they have these unqualified insurance company employees reviewing these pictures and writing poor estimates. It is a battle to get the insurance company to send out an actual adjuster, which is very frustrating.”
How are you incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into your business?
It’s all over the news these days – AI is beginning to crop up in every industry, and although the reviews about its impact are mixed, it seems inevitable that we will see more automated intelligence in every aspect of our lives in the near future. Although 60 percent of our survey respondents have indicated that AI isn’t something you’ll find in their toolboxes just yet, a few New Jersey shop owners are dabbling in this new technology.
A little under 10 percent of survey respondents who are using AI are trying out CCC’s new initial estimate functions.
“We’ve been using CCC for generating estimates for total losses,” one Camden shop owner commented. “It’s been helping some with tow-ins. It’s been good
seeing how it can take some steps away from our staff.”
For others, they’re keeping AI away from the repair process but have found it helpful in other aspects of running their businesses. Thirteen percent of those who took our survey and are currently using AI are playing around with its communication abilities.
“We’re only using it for correspondence at this time, whether it’s email drafts and replies or for marketing,” a North Jersey repairer explained. “ It allows me to focus my time where it needs to be – on shop operations.”
What are your biggest concerns about AI?
With the rise of AI slowly becoming a reality, it’s hard not to call to mind the many movies and TV shows that have used the possibility of AI as a means of nightmarefuel. From 2001: A Space Odyssey to I, Robot to Blade Runner to The Terminator to Westworld and so many more, media over the past few decades has warned against the potential negative impact of AI. What do New Jersey repairers think AI will impact the most in their businesses? Unsurprisingly, many of our readers’ concerns are
centered around how this technology will be used by insurers to further their bad practices.
“Virtual estimates are already bad enough as it is; I don’t want to have to talk to AI to get any answers,” a South Jersey shop owner lamented. “I want to talk to an actual person on the other end.”
“I can’t see any other outcome except it being used against us,” a Piscataway repairer seconded. “The data will only benefit the insurers, and they’ll use it to nickel and dime all estimate line items. It’s going to be horrible.”
One thing all of our readers agreed on is that AI is only in the infancy stage, and there will be many more changes on the horizon. What those changes will be and how we will need to adjust – we can only speculate.
In your opinion, has the increase in consolidation been helpful or harmful to the industry?
Helpful: 26%
Harmful: 74%
There’s the old adage, “there’s strength in numbers,” but the question for many New
Jersey shop owners is: does consolidation provide strength to the shops or to the insurers? Although some of our survey respondents were optimistic about the possibilities that consolidation could provide, the vast majority don’t have quite as sunny an outlook.
“It’s going to be harder for independent shops to compete, profit-wise,” a South Jersey repairer predicted. “Given the consolidators’ buying power and discounts they receive, we won’t be able to keep up.”
“My hope would be that the consolidators would eventually push to raise the labor rates, but I’m doubtful that will ever happen,” a North Jersey shop owner noted. “In the short term, though, we have gotten more claims when a local shop was bought by a big MSO and then lost all their staff.”
A Bedminster-based reader shared these sentiments.
“They will lower the industry standards worse than what they already are,” he explained. “It will just be a numbers game, catering to the insurers. We already know they only care about the bottom line. It’s just going to get worse.”
In the past year, have you taken legal action against a third party on behalf of your shop or your customer?
Yes: 22%
No: 78%
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2024 NJA Industry Survey
continued from pg. 31
What is your current labor rate?
$50-$60 per hour: 17%
$61-$70 per hour: 35%
$71-$80 per hour: 35%
$81-$90 per hour: 4%
More than $90 per hour: 9%
In last year’s survey results, we were happy to report that New Jersey shops were beginning to charge closer to what they are worth for their labor. Just three years ago, almost 70 percent of survey respondents reported that their labor rate was between $50-$60 per hour. In the following years, that number has steadily decreased, and we are pleased to share that now less than one fifth of NJA readers have a labor rate lower than $60. While there is still a long way to go in getting paid what we deserve, we are finally seeing some improvement in Garden State labor rates.
What do you think your labor rate should be?
Less than $90 per hour: 9%
$91-$100 per hour: 35%
$101-$120 per hour: 43%
More than $120 per hour: 13%
What is your current storage rate?
$50-$60 per day: 13%
$61-$70 per day: 9%
$71-$80 per day: 4%
$81-$90 per day: 13%
More than $90 per day: 61%
How do you educate your current and potential customers?
A prevailing cause of many of the issues repairers encounter with insurance companies comes down to the fact that customers are ignorant of the repair process and what their rights are. New Jersey shop owners are fighting a constant battle to provide this education and improve circumstances for their customers and their businesses.
“We interview our clients prior to agreeing to enter into a repair contract,” one North Jersey shop owner reported. “We reference New Jersey regulations, industry articles and more. We make sure the customers are well informed before we even get started.”
“We explain the issues we are facing with their insurance company and how they might be responsible for a portion of the repair,” an East Orange-based reader also shared. “We try to compare it to how medical insurance operates so they get the idea.”
A South Jersey survey respondent echoed these tactics.
“We try to arm them with all the information we can,” he explained. “We inform them as well as we can about third-party tactics to be on the lookout for, what OEM procedures are and why they’re important, what safety inspections are required by their car’s manufacturers that the carrier is not willing to compensate, diminished value, etc.”
With how much time shop owners are spending
educating customers, it’s a wonder anyone gets any repairs done at all!
What type of training do you feel your shop needs more of?
Although 26 percent of our survey respondents either didn’t feel they needed more training or weren’t sure what kind to seek out, almost threefourths of respondents recognized that there is still plenty of room for improvement. OEM repair requirements were noted as an important area for training for 17 percent of our readers, with aluminum repair and electrical diagnostics coming in just behind with 13 percent each. In addition to technical skills, quite a few survey takers indicated that they could use training in “soft skills’”such as leadership, organization and communication.
If you could change anything about this industry, what would it be?
If you’ve made it to the end of this article, if you’ve read any trade publications
over the past few years, if you have spent more than a week in this industry, you already know that there are more problems facing automotive repairers than could ever be listed in one lifetime. For NJA readers who responded to our survey, the things they would change in the industry touched on almost every issue we face today.
“I would reduce the friction between insurers and shops,” a Trentonbased repairer shared. “I would make the insurers responsible to follow the regulation by adding the ability to sue or penalize them for their actions.”
“A stronger adherence to the rules and regulations by the third-party bill payers,” a Montclair shop owner put on his wish list. “Also, a stronger presence of oversight (DOBI) with material penalties to ensure adherence of the rules.”
For 17 percent of our readers, holding the insurance companies accountable isn’t enough. These readers indicated that the thing they’d change about the industry would be to follow Massachusetts’ lead in discouraging shops from participating in referral
programs and work toward bringing an end to DRPs in New Jersey.
“There should be no association by any shop with any insurance company agreeing to any favoritism or special deals because you give them discounts/favors,” a North Jersey reader proposed. “Special pricing is – and always has been – the killer of this industry.”
Of course, the abysmal labor rates were prevalent in many of our survey takers’ answers as well, with 22 percent of shops noting the need for change in this area. Whatever your largest gripe is with the industry, one thing is for certain – things absolutely have to change.
Conclusion:
The tune may change, but the song remains the same. New Jersey repairers are still dealing with many of the old struggles (insurer malfeasance, poor labor rates and lack of new talent) while now also juggling many new challenges (increased cost of doing business and AI, to name a few). We hope that the results of this survey have provided you with new perspectives and insights into how your neighbors are handling these challenges and will help you feel more united as an industry. Thank you again to everyone who provided their feedback to NJA’s 2024 survey, and we look forward to positive changes on the road ahead!
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Full Throttle: Succeeding with Family-Owned Business
Running an auto repair business with family members can be highly rewarding, as the trust and loyalty within familial relationships can create a solid foundation. However, blending personal and professional lives comes with unique challenges that need to be carefully managed to avoid strained relationships or business failure. Here are some critical strategies to help you navigate these waters successfully.
Establishing Clear Boundaries in Business Operations
Setting clear boundaries is crucial to ensure business operations do not spill over into personal life. Defining distinct roles and responsibilities for each person involved can help manage expectations and reduce conflicts. For example, one family member might handle customer service and front office duties, while another oversees the technical aspects and repairs. This clarity allows each partner to focus on their specific tasks without overstepping into each other’s domains. This is particularly important in a sector where approximately 75 percent of auto repair shops in the United States are familyowned, reflecting the strong tradition of family-operated businesses in this industry
Understanding the Importance of Legal Framework and Agreements
Formalizing the business relationship with legal agreements is essential, even when working with loved ones. Drafting a partnership agreement or shareholder’s
agreement can outline critical aspects, such as:
• Equity Distribution and Investment: Clearly state who owns what percentage of the business and the contributions (cash or otherwise) expected from each partner.
• Decision-Making Processes: Define how business decisions are made, who holds what power and how disputes are resolved.
• Transfer of Interests: Consider issues of death, disability, retirement or withdrawal and how the interest will be valued and transferred in such events.
• Exit Strategies: Discuss how a partner can exit the business is crucial for preparing for all possibilities.
The automotive repair industry is projected to reach $58.7 billion by 2024, setting a solid legal foundation is critical to managing potential growth and ensuring longterm success.
Facilitating Open and Honest Communication
The increasing average age of vehicles in the US, now at 12.2 years, suggests more frequent repairs and maintenance, highlighting the need for clear and open communication to manage the growing workload and customer expectations. Frequent and transparent communication is the backbone of any successful partnership. Schedule regular meetings to discuss business progress, concerns and feedback. In the auto repair industry, where customer satisfaction is paramount,
this ongoing dialogue helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that all partners are aligned with the business objectives and values.
Consulting a Legal Professional
Seeking the advice of a legal professional is indispensable in setting up the business correctly. They can help craft agreements that reflect the interests of all parties involved and ensure that the business complies with local laws and regulations. This step not only protects the business legally but also reiterates to everyone involved their rights and obligations. According to the New Jersey Business Action Center, small businesses that seek legal counsel from the start are significantly less likely to face legal disputes later on. Research suggests that investing in legal counsel early on can provide a substantial return on investment (ROI). For instance, companies that proactively engage legal services often see a reduction in litigation costs, with some reports indicating that businesses can save up to 70 percent in potential legal expenses by having a lawyer review documents and agreements beforehand.
Crafting a Plan for Financial Management
Transparent handling of financial matters is critical to prevent any strain on personal relationships due to monetary disputes. Consider implementing the following:
• Joint Account for Business Expenses: Keep personal finances separate from business transactions, which is vital in an industry where operational costs can be high.
• Clear Financial Protocols: Establish who manages the money, how records are kept and how often financial reports are disseminated.
by BILL BARRETT,
By setting clear boundaries, maintaining open communication and implementing proper legal strategies, it is possible to maintain healthy relationships while running a successful auto repair business with family members or other loved ones. These steps can help your business thrive and strengthen your personal relationships, ultimately leading to a more prosperous and harmonious shop.
Bill Barrett is an award-winning corporate and business law attorney and CEO of the law firm Mandelbaum Barrett PC, where he and his team have provided a full array of legal services to both businesses and individuals throughout the country. Contact him via email at wbarrett@mblawfirm.com
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Ed Silipena - American II Autos (609) 965-0987 / esilipena@yahoo.com
Norm Vachon - Port Murray Auto (908) 689-3152 / portmurrayauto@yahoo.com
Dillon Rinkens - East Brunswick Auto (732) 254-6501 / ebautonj@comcast.net
ARANJ Officers
President - Rodney Krawczyk Ace Auto Wreckers (732) 254-9816 / aceautonj@comcast.net
1st Vice President - Daryl Carman Lentini Auto Salvage (908) 782-4440 / darryl@las-parts.coms
2nd Vice President - Mike Ronayne Tilghmans Auto Parts (609) 723-7469 / tilghmans@snip.net
Past President - Bob Dirkes Dirkes Used Auto Parts (609) 625-1718 / dirkesauto@gmail.com
ARANJ
The Automotive Recyclers Association of New Jersey
Wharton Insurance Briefs
The December issue of the New Jersey Automotive magazine marks our 22nd year of providing insurance briefs for the association. On behalf of the Wharton Group, I’d like to thank you for allowing us the opportunity to participate in the Automotive Recyclers Association.
For your information, the New Jersey Workers’ Compensation Rating and Inspection Bureau released the newly promulgated rates for 2025:
• Auto Dismantling increased from $15.98 to $17.10.
• Auto Body Repair decreased from $3.21 to $2.83.
• Auto Repair decreased from $4.98 to $4.73.
• Clerical decreased from $0.16 to $0.14.
• Iron or Steel Scrap Dealer decreased from $8.08 to $6.99.
• Salesperson decreased from $0.38 to $0.33.
• Store: Retail Accessories (Counter Person) decreased from $4.39 to $4.10
• PLEASE NOTE: The Store (Counterperson) code must be approved prior to use. The operation must be physically separated from salvage and parts storage and must not have any interchange of labor. This code does not include drivers.
Also, the executive officers’ annual minimum payroll is $43,160 with a maximum annual payroll of $172,640. Lastly, if your insurance policy is written in the NJ State Plan, you are going to be charged an additional 20 percent (minimum) for the Plan Premium Adjustment Program and will also lose the premium discount.
As always, if you have any questions regarding your insurance coverage, please contact us.
(ext. 1320) (908) 513-8588 (cell) mdefilippis@whartoninsurance.com
Automated Spot Welding Solutions with RAE’s NEW InvertaSpot NexGen
Optimal performance, accessibility and cutting-edge precision come standard with the NEW InvertaSpot NexGen Spot Welder.
The InvertaSpot NG has been developed to meet car manufacturer specifications and offers both automatic and manual operation modes for ease of use. Among its many standout features is an intuitive digital interface, including Bluetooth trigger controls for seamless operation and an easy-to-navigate touchscreen display that enhances each user’s experience. The lightweight gun and c-arms combine with upgraded technology to ensure improved handling as well as precise pressure regulation, amperage, and timing for top-notch performance with a variety of sheet metal configurations.
The InvertaSpot NG’s inverter technology ensures consistent welds every time and helps to minimize energy consumption, keeping operational costs
down and efficiency high. Its compact, portable design allows repairers to position the welder wherever needed, enabling it to take on projects of any size.
The InvertaSpot NG is perfect for both entry-level and expert welders, with pre-set parameters for a variety of materials and thicknesses. Repairers can begin working quickly without having to spend time on complex adjustments; more experienced users can manually fine-tune settings, allowing for precise welds to meet industry standards. Whatever a repairer’s skill level and scope of repair job, the InvertaSpot NG will help in streamlining the repair process and furthering productivity.
To learn more about the InvertaSpot NG or to view Reliable Automotive Equipment’s full offering of products, services and support, visit raeservice. com
1953
Delivering to the New Jersey/New York area.
Genuine Nissan parts are built to the same standards as Nissan vehicles. It’s no wonder they’re the driving force behind the most exhilarating vehicle on the road.
7 experienced countermen and 12 drivers ready to serve
Parts: 800-782-7597
E-mail: John@lynnes.com www.lynnesnissan.com
Hours: M-F 7:30am - 6pm, Sat 7:30am - 2pm
5 Alva Street | Bloomfield, NJ 07003
The RAE InvertaSpot NG combines accuracy with a user-friendly interface for increased efficiency and precise welding solutions.
Our wholesale parts team is here to make sure you find the exact Genuine Subaru Parts you need for every repair.
•Competitive prices
•Fast, accurate deliveries
•Genuine Subaru Parts that drive your business
Fax: 973-402-9591
mdaltilio@paulmiller.com www.paulmillersubaru.com/parts
